Story by Lawrence Trusida, Sports Editor
THE long-standing Barbourfields hoodoo takes centre stage on Sunday as CAPS United face Highlanders in a Castle Lager Premier Soccer League encounter in Bulawayo.
CAPS United supporters are optimistic of ending a decade-long winless run at Barbourfields Stadium, where victories have proved elusive since 2016.
The Harare giants, popularly known as Makepekepe, have lost six times at the venue during that period and have struggled to make an impact, scoring just twice against Bosso at Barbourfields since the COVID-19 era.
Despite the daunting record, confidence is high among the Green Machine faithful ahead of the clash.
“We are excited about this match and the form we are in is giving us confidence that this time we will get it right,” said one fan, ZiSuper reGreen.
Another supporter, Madzibaba Willow, expressed belief in the team’s chances.
“Those who say they have not lost it because they have not played us (CAPS United), because when you play Makepekepe, you will lose,” he said.
Rasta weKepula added: “This time it is our time, yes, they win, but they are lacking confidence, and we know if we score, they will start second-guessing themselves.”
While optimism is building in Harare, the decisive battle will unfold in Bulawayo, a venue that has consistently troubled CAPS United.
The clash promises another chapter in one of Zimbabwe football’s fiercest rivalries, with the outcome hinging on whether CAPS United can finally break the Barbourfields jinx or if Highlanders will extend their dominance on home soil.
